Key Factors to Consider Before Starting a Poultry Farming Project

Indigenous chicken [PHOTO/COURTESY]

Are you thinking of starting a poultry farming business? Then this is for you.

Just like in any business, handholding is key to every step when you are starting off and that is why we are here as Poultry Indepth to help you get set. Discussed below are tips you should use as you prepare to start your poultry farming project.

1. Study the Market

You could be as ambitious as the devil, but to be safe, start small. Now, as a small-scale farmer, prior to starting a poultry farming business, you need to ascertain what market demand is there is for various poultry products.

Find out from your target or nearest market the state of such aspects as product prices, quantities and acceptable quality levels. This way, you will know where the gaps are. These can range from a shortage of fertilised pure or improved kienyeji eggs or a high demand for chicks or broilers. You will then make an informed decision. Choose a lane you can thrive on.

There are areas where you can thrive selling mature birds while others have plenty of those. Always consider the gap.

2. Research on Costs

This is a crucial pillar. You need a good understanding of costs such as initial investment costs, production and marketing costs as well as expected revenues and the profit margin that can be made. If for instance, you want to start off with 50 chicken, you must find out how much it costs to build proper housing for the birds and how much it can cost you to feed, vaccinate and care for them.

In order to cut down on the costs of starting off, it is highly recommended that you use readily available materials. Think of converting that unused house or structure at your home and customizing it to fit the required standards of a good poultry house. Perhaps, consider using simple wooden poles, iron sheets (old ones) to cut down on costs. Timber can be a little more costly.

A poultry farming structure. [PHOTO/COURTESY]

3. Crucial Support Services

Take your good time to ascertain support services that may be required for you to start the small-scale commercial poultry enterprise., for example, where you can find a poultry housing expert, feeds, clean drinking water, access and availability of vaccinations and more importantly availability of your desired breed. Moreover, you need to also consider what other small-scale farmers are doing and if they are also producing poultry, as a new market entrant may only create a glut in the local market and depress prices. It is vital to link up with other farmers as they form a crucial support system. You can be a member of Poultry Indepth and save yourself from misinformation on social media.

You need reliable support on the farm since having more than 50 birds is labour intensive. Your availability on the farm is critical to the project's success. Note that it is not just any labourer in poultry, get a well-informed person.

In summary, before starting making steps, look into these aspects;

• Market demand - study the market and know where you can make significant profits. This keeps changing.

• Feeds: sources, quality and access - the quality of your feeds will always affect your production. Study feeding guides to understand what to give the birds at each stage as they grow.

• Water: sources, quality and access - birds require plenty of clean water at all times. Do not give them dirty water.

• Production system to adopt - Will you produce and hatch your own eggs? Will you make your own feeds?

• Housing - Do not overcrowd your birds in a tiny structure. Start with a manageable number and expand over time. Also, consider aspects such as lighting since too much light and poorly lit structure are not recommended.

• Health care and veterinary assistance - this will help you overcome the threat of diseases. Ensure proper vaccination.

• Poultry breeds - identify a breed that is good for the production model you have identified. Various breeds have different strengths and weaknesses.

• Credit and access to credit - financial support can be a boost. For example, getting an incubator can be a challenge. As such, access to a credit facility you can be comfortable with will boost your business.

• Costs and potential profits - always know how much everything costs and keep records. Minimise on expenses and go for your maximum profit capability.

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